have to say this was a wonderful place to stay - my 1st experience with a hostel. clean, friendly and within a short walk to beach and restaurants. had a wonderful time with my son and daughter. owners made it very comfortable, friendly, and resourseful would highly recommend More

We wanted to get away from the cold and dark winter and were looking for a place where we could improve our surfing, enjoy the weather, go on day trips and just relax - and we couldn't have found a better place than this! The caring Keller family and their great staff will make sure you enjoy every minute of... More

La Buena Vida was a much needed respite to the chaos of Montanita. Although I was only there for 3 days, it felt like 8 days. Marilyn is a friendly, super smart host/proprietor who offers to make arrangements for trips and good to know bus travel here and there. Keith is so friendly and they are both just genuinely nice... More

We enjoyed 6 days at la Buena Vida and wished we could have stayed for many more. Couldn't agree more with the reviews that say this is the best place to stay in the area, and that part of that is due to the hosts, Keith & Marilyn. Constantly improving the place, it has comfortable air-conditioned rooms with ceiling fans... More

Awesome hosts, great food, relaxing atmosphere, and fun surf. What more could you ask for? More

Bungalows Buena Vida is definitely the best place to stay in the area and one of our best lodging experiences in Ecuador; the cabanas are clean and new, with great bathrooms and hot water; the beds are comfortable. Though air conditioned units are available, the ceiling fans and breezes at night were all we needed. Marilyn and Keith, the owners,... More

So, we booked for 2 weeks, and stayed 6 weeks! I wonder if we win the title of "longest stay" at La Buena Vida? Keith and Marilyn are awesome. They take pride in their establishment and it shows - we saw a massive transformation in the 3mths we stayed in Ayampe. The place now has a large overhanging covered outdoor... More

We had originally booked for two nights and ended up staying for ten! Keith and Marilyn (the owners) deserve the unamimous opinion that this place is excellent. They are true hospitality professionals and made us feel like old friends La Buena Vida will keep a piece of you and you will feel its magnetism the moment you leave. That's why... More

Where the rain forest meets the beach, there is nothing like this place. We have found paradise and Bungalows La Buena Vida is the place to stay. Can't say enough about the staff and Keith and Marilyn. They made everything possible when we first landed by picking us up from the airport to setting up trail hikes, horse back riding,... More